Many people love to tackle a DIY job in their backyard on the weekend. However, whipping up a wood-fire pizza oven or erecting a garden shed is not the kind of DIY I like to do.
Perhaps you are like me? If you like creating things with your hands, but don't want to get them too dirty, why not try to create a wearable DIY fashion item?
My latest sewing project
If you are about to stop reading and think this is too far out of your comfort zone, give me a little time to talk you through how easy it is – and how satisfying.
First of all, you are going to need a sewing machine - if you don't have one, beg or borrow one. After you've completed a few projects and make the decision that sewing is for you (and you will) check out gumtree.com or your local classified ads to grab a second hand bargain.
When deciding upon your first weekend project, choose wisely. If you start off with a blazer or evening gown, you will give up before you even thread the needle. Try a garment that has a few straight seams (like draw-string pyjama pants), and if you don't have someone to teach you – avoid buttonholes, zips and other more complicated techniques.
When you are feeling a little more confident and have tackled a few successful sewing tasks, the internet is a great source of inspiration for what to try next.
In the last five years there has been an explosion of blogs and websites concentrating on home-sewing and craft projects.
I discovered
diy couture's website recently. They publish sewing books that provide simple visual instructions that are very different to traditional patterns, which can be a little confusing.
Check out diy couture.
Another great website is
Burda Style. It is a sewing community website, where you can buy patterns, ask questions and view uploaded photos of the garments others have made.
'Layla' pattern from Burda Style - this would be a great beginner project to try.
When you wear one of your pieces out of the house, (maybe avoid that draw-string pyjama pants attempt) enjoy the satisfying feeling of knowing it was created by your little hands.
You don't have to be an expert to attempt making your own piece of clothing. Have a go one weekend soon and you might come to share mine (and many other's) very rewarding, environmentally friendly, creative passion.
